Monday, April 22, 2013
A smile
A Smile costs nothing, but gives much.
It enriches those who receive, without making poorer those who give.
It takes but a moment, but the memory of it sometimes lasts forever.
None is so rich or mighty that he can get along without it,
and none is so poor, but that he can be made rich by it.
A Smile creates happiness in the home, fosters good will in business,
and is the countersign of friendship.
It brings rest to the weary, cheer to the discouraged, sunshine to the sad,
and it is nature's best antidote for trouble.
Yet it cannot be bought, begged, borrowed, or stolen,
for it is something that is of no value to anyone, until it is given away.
Some people are too tired to give you a smile;
Give them one of yours, as none needs a smile so much as he who has no more to give.
It enriches those who receive, without making poorer those who give.
It takes but a moment, but the memory of it sometimes lasts forever.
None is so rich or mighty that he can get along without it,
and none is so poor, but that he can be made rich by it.
A Smile creates happiness in the home, fosters good will in business,
and is the countersign of friendship.
It brings rest to the weary, cheer to the discouraged, sunshine to the sad,
and it is nature's best antidote for trouble.
Yet it cannot be bought, begged, borrowed, or stolen,
for it is something that is of no value to anyone, until it is given away.
Some people are too tired to give you a smile;
Give them one of yours, as none needs a smile so much as he who has no more to give.
Sunday, November 21, 2010
A little inspiration. Written by a 90 year old.
This is something we should all read at least once a week!!!!! Make sure you read to the end!!!!!!
Written by Regina Brett, 90 years old, of the Plain Dealer, Cleveland, Ohio.
"To celebrate growing older, I once wrote the 45 lessons life taught me. It is the most requested column I've ever written. My odometer rolled over to 90 in August, so here is the column once more:
1. Life isn't fair, but it's still good.
2. When in doubt, just take the next small step.
3. Life is too short to waste time hating anyone.
4. Your job won't take care of you when you are sick. Your friends and parents will. Stay in touch.
5. Pay off your credit cards every month.
6. You don't have to win every argument. Agree to disagree.
7. Cry with someone. It's more healing than crying alone.
8. It's OK to get angry with God. He can take it.
9. Save for retirement starting with your first paycheck.
10. When it comes to chocolate, resistance is futile.
11. Make peace with your past so it won't screw up the present.
12. It's OK to let your children see you cry.
13. Don't compare your life to others. You have no idea what their journey is all about.
14. If a relationship has to be a secret, you shouldn't be in it.
15. Everything can change in the blink of an eye. But don't worry; God never blinks.
16. Take a deep breath. It calms the mind.
17. Get rid of anything that isn't useful, beautiful or joyful.
18. Whatever doesn't kill you really does make you stronger.
19. It's never too late to have a happy childhood. But the second one is up to you and no one else.
20. When it comes to going after what you love in life, don't take no for an answer.
21. Burn the candles, use the nice sheets, wear the fancy lingerie. Don't save it for a special occasion. Today is special.
22. Over prepare, then go with the flow.
23. Be eccentric now. Don't wait for old age to wear purple.
24. The most important sex organ is the brain.
25. No one is in charge of your happiness but you.
26. Frame every so-called disaster with these words 'In five years, will this matter?'
27. Always choose life.
28. Forgive everyone everything.
29. What other people think of you is none of your business.
30. Time heals almost everything. Give time time.
31. However good or bad a situation is, it will change.
32. Don't take yourself so seriously. No one else does.
33. Believe in miracles.
34. God loves you because of who God is, not because of anything you did or didn't
35. Don't audit life. Show up and make the most of it now.
36. Growing old beats the alternative -- dying young.
37. Your children get only one childhood.
38. All that truly matters in the end is that you loved.
39. Get outside every day. Miracles are waiting everywhere.
40. If we all threw our problems in a pile and saw everyone else's, we'd grab ours back
41. Envy is a waste of time. You already have all you need.
42. The best is yet to come...
43. No matter how you feel, get up, dress up and show up.
44. Yield.
45. Life isn't tied with a bow, but it's still a gift.
Hope you enjoyed it, please leave me a comment, I would love to hear from you.
Chantal
Written by Regina Brett, 90 years old, of the Plain Dealer, Cleveland, Ohio.
"To celebrate growing older, I once wrote the 45 lessons life taught me. It is the most requested column I've ever written. My odometer rolled over to 90 in August, so here is the column once more:
1. Life isn't fair, but it's still good.
2. When in doubt, just take the next small step.
3. Life is too short to waste time hating anyone.
4. Your job won't take care of you when you are sick. Your friends and parents will. Stay in touch.
5. Pay off your credit cards every month.
6. You don't have to win every argument. Agree to disagree.
7. Cry with someone. It's more healing than crying alone.
8. It's OK to get angry with God. He can take it.
9. Save for retirement starting with your first paycheck.
10. When it comes to chocolate, resistance is futile.
11. Make peace with your past so it won't screw up the present.
12. It's OK to let your children see you cry.
13. Don't compare your life to others. You have no idea what their journey is all about.
14. If a relationship has to be a secret, you shouldn't be in it.
15. Everything can change in the blink of an eye. But don't worry; God never blinks.
16. Take a deep breath. It calms the mind.
17. Get rid of anything that isn't useful, beautiful or joyful.
18. Whatever doesn't kill you really does make you stronger.
19. It's never too late to have a happy childhood. But the second one is up to you and no one else.
20. When it comes to going after what you love in life, don't take no for an answer.
21. Burn the candles, use the nice sheets, wear the fancy lingerie. Don't save it for a special occasion. Today is special.
22. Over prepare, then go with the flow.
23. Be eccentric now. Don't wait for old age to wear purple.
24. The most important sex organ is the brain.
25. No one is in charge of your happiness but you.
26. Frame every so-called disaster with these words 'In five years, will this matter?'
27. Always choose life.
28. Forgive everyone everything.
29. What other people think of you is none of your business.
30. Time heals almost everything. Give time time.
31. However good or bad a situation is, it will change.
32. Don't take yourself so seriously. No one else does.
33. Believe in miracles.
34. God loves you because of who God is, not because of anything you did or didn't
35. Don't audit life. Show up and make the most of it now.
36. Growing old beats the alternative -- dying young.
37. Your children get only one childhood.
38. All that truly matters in the end is that you loved.
39. Get outside every day. Miracles are waiting everywhere.
40. If we all threw our problems in a pile and saw everyone else's, we'd grab ours back
41. Envy is a waste of time. You already have all you need.
42. The best is yet to come...
43. No matter how you feel, get up, dress up and show up.
44. Yield.
45. Life isn't tied with a bow, but it's still a gift.
Hope you enjoyed it, please leave me a comment, I would love to hear from you.
Chantal
Sunday, August 8, 2010
Tuesday, July 20, 2010
Abundance
When we choose not to focus
on what's missing from our lives
but are grateful for the abundance
that is present,
we experience heaven on earth!
* * *
Sunday, July 18, 2010
Slow Dance
This poem was written by a terminally ill young girl in a New York Hospital.
She only had 6 months left to live, and as her dying wish, she wanted to send a letter telling everyone to live their life to the fullest, since she never will.
She'll never make it to prom, graduate from high school, or get married and have a family of her own.
She only had 6 months left to live, and as her dying wish, she wanted to send a letter telling everyone to live their life to the fullest, since she never will.
She'll never make it to prom, graduate from high school, or get married and have a family of her own.
Slow Dance ...
Have you ever watched kids
On a merry-go-round?
Or listened to the rain
Slapping on the ground?
Ever followed a butterfly's erratic flight?
Or gazed at the sun into the fading night?
You'd better slow down.
Don't dance so fast.
Time is short.
The music won't last.
Have you ever watched kids
On a merry-go-round?
Or listened to the rain
Slapping on the ground?
Ever followed a butterfly's erratic flight?
Or gazed at the sun into the fading night?
You'd better slow down.
Don't dance so fast.
Time is short.
The music won't last.
Do you run through each day
On the fly?
When you ask How are you?
Do you hear the reply?
When the day is done
Do you lie in your bed
With the next hundred chores
Running through your head?
You'd better slow down
Don't dance so fast.
Time is short.
The music won't last.
Ever told your child,
We'll do it tomorrow?
And in your haste,
Not see his sorrow?
Ever lost touch,
Let a good friendship die
Cause you never had time
To call and say 'Hi'
You'd better slow down.
Don't dance so fast.
Time is short.
The music won't last.
When you run so fast to get somewhere
You miss half the fun of getting there.
When you worry and hurry through your day,
It is like an unopened gift.... Thrown away.
Life is not a race.
Do take it slower
Hear the music
Before the song is over.
Wednesday, June 16, 2010
Sunday, January 17, 2010
Let's start the New Year with Positive Thinking
Life is short. If you are stressed or worried, if you eat unhealthy or if you focus on negative stuff. Your life will be even shorter.
Your troubles of today are only temporary, look for the silver lining. If you look hard enough, you will find the silver lining and it will make all the difference in how you perceive your situation and how you feel.
When things are good in your life, they will seldom become great. We rarely make changes when things are good. Only when we hit rock-bottom, are we forced to make changes… and that will lead you to greatness. So, if you have hit rock-bottom, hold on to your socks and start celebrating because your greatest life is right around the corner!
Stop staring at the closed doors (the negative stuff). Search for all the open doors (opportunities) all around you. When one door closes another door opens; but we so often look so long and so regretfully upon the closed door, that we do not see the ones which open for us.
You are perfect, regardless of what you have been told, what people think, or how people treat you, you are perfect just the way you are.
The only opinion that counts is the opinion you have of yourself. No one can make you feel inferior without your permission.
You already have all the answers - they are just lost in the mental fog. Clear your mind of all clutter and negative chatter. Meditate, exercise and take time for yourself to reflect.
Don’t follow the crowd. It will only take you places where others want to go. Go confidently in the direction of your dreams!
Today is tomorrow, so stop procrastinating. Get out there and start living your greatest life. Be different, be bold, be loving and always follow your heart.
Be conscious of what you are feeding your mind. If you can dream it, then you can achieve it. You will get all you want in life if you help enough other people get what they want.
Thursday, December 17, 2009
It's Christmas Time Again!
Put your problems on probation
Run your troubles off the track,
Throw your worries out the window
Get the monkeys off your back.
Silence all your inner critics
With your conscience make amends,
And allow yourself some happiness
It's Christmas time again!
Call a truce with those who bother you
Let all the fighting cease,
Give your differences a breather
And declare a time of peace,
Don't let angry feelings taint
The precious time you have to spend,
And allow yourself some happiness
It's Christmas time again!
Like some cool refreshing water
Or a gentle summer breeze,
Like a fresh bouquet of flowers
Or the smell of autumn leaves,
It's a banquet for the spirit
Filled with family, food and friends,
So allow yourself some happiness
It's Christmas time again!
Thanks to my friend Nettie for posting this on the notice board on Yuwie's social networking site. http://ww2.yuwie.com/profile/?id=79769
She sure knows what the Christmas spirit is all about.
I would like to take this opportunity to wish you all a Merry Christmas. May it be filled with happiness, joy, love and laughter.
Sunday, October 18, 2009
Make Change a Positive Part of Your Life
You must avoid breaking when things don't go your way.
You'll always be secure to the degree that you accept change.
True security comes from being able to bend your insecurities.
Recognize and accept that change will inevitably take place.
You'll become secure, not by standing still, but by growing, moving, and staying energized.
Be secure in the knowledge that you can deal with anything that happens to you.
Have the courage to bet on your ideas.
Take some calculated risks and act on your dreams.
There is no permanent security on this earth, there is only opportunity.
"Even if you're on the right track, you'll get run over if you just sit there." ~Will Rogers
You'll always be secure to the degree that you accept change.
True security comes from being able to bend your insecurities.
Recognize and accept that change will inevitably take place.
You'll become secure, not by standing still, but by growing, moving, and staying energized.
Be secure in the knowledge that you can deal with anything that happens to you.
Have the courage to bet on your ideas.
Take some calculated risks and act on your dreams.
There is no permanent security on this earth, there is only opportunity.
"Even if you're on the right track, you'll get run over if you just sit there." ~Will Rogers
Wednesday, September 9, 2009
Positive Quotes for Sept. 9, 2009
Create your own dreams and follow them until they are a reality.~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~
Keep clearly in mind where you would like to go and then patiently and harmoniously follow the flow of the river of life until it takes you there.
~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~
Replace your weaknesses with positives, let yesterday become a memory and tomorrow a promise.
Tuesday, September 8, 2009
Positive Thoughts for September 8th, 2009
Enjoy the little things in life ... for one day you'll look back and realize they were the big things.
It matters not what you are thought to be, but what you are .
To change the World, change your own beliefs about the nature of life, people, reality and begin to act accordingly.
Wednesday, September 2, 2009
Until We Meet Again
Having to say goodbye is so hard to do, instead I prefer to say "until we meet again"
Last week my friend Angela and her family moved back to her hometown in Winnipeg. For the past 7 years they lived in Quebec and we became very good friends. We played ball, hockey and volleyball together. We traveled to numerous tournaments with our family and we shared many meals and stories.
My friends and I organized a special evening to let them know how much we appreciate them and to underline the difference they made in our lives. We also wanted them to be aware that in Quebec they will always have friends to come home to.
I wrote a poem entitled "Until We Meet Again" especially for Angela and her family. I would like to share it with you... so here it goes.
Until We Meet Again
The hardest part of any friendship
is when it’s time to say goodbye.
And even though I wish you’d stay
I believe everything happens for a reason.
For life is a journey that needs to be travelled
and I am certain you'll make it through.
I want you to know and never forget
that I will surely miss you my friend.
So follow your heart and never give up
as dreams and wishes do come true.
For I know that someday we'll meet again,
most likely on the ice or at the park.
Angela, Brad, Danielle and Gabe,
Here in Quebec you’ve made many friends
It is your home away from home
It is also where you’ll find the best poutine
When the moment comes we’ll laugh again
We’ll share a meal and memories,
Have a few drinks while getting up to date
And be grateful for this special reunion.
Angela, I wish you and your family well
Until we meet again.
Your friend Chantal
Last week my friend Angela and her family moved back to her hometown in Winnipeg. For the past 7 years they lived in Quebec and we became very good friends. We played ball, hockey and volleyball together. We traveled to numerous tournaments with our family and we shared many meals and stories.
My friends and I organized a special evening to let them know how much we appreciate them and to underline the difference they made in our lives. We also wanted them to be aware that in Quebec they will always have friends to come home to.
I wrote a poem entitled "Until We Meet Again" especially for Angela and her family. I would like to share it with you... so here it goes.
Until We Meet Again
The hardest part of any friendship
is when it’s time to say goodbye.
And even though I wish you’d stay
I believe everything happens for a reason.
For life is a journey that needs to be travelled
and I am certain you'll make it through.
I want you to know and never forget
that I will surely miss you my friend.
So follow your heart and never give up
as dreams and wishes do come true.
For I know that someday we'll meet again,
most likely on the ice or at the park.
Angela, Brad, Danielle and Gabe,
Here in Quebec you’ve made many friends
It is your home away from home
It is also where you’ll find the best poutine
When the moment comes we’ll laugh again
We’ll share a meal and memories,
Have a few drinks while getting up to date
And be grateful for this special reunion.
Angela, I wish you and your family well
Until we meet again.
Your friend Chantal
Monday, July 27, 2009
Quotes for Today, Monday July 27, 2009
I have neglected my readers, I hope you forgive me.
Wishing you a lovely summer.
Here are a few inspirational quotes that I gathered here and there.
You can close your eyes to things you don't want to see, but you can't close your heart to the things you don't want to feel ~Author Unknown~
“Don’t ask what the world needs. Ask what makes you come alive, and go do it. Because what the world needs is people who have come alive.” ~Howard Thurman~
The secret of success is to be in harmony with existence, to be always calm to let each wave of life wash us a little farther up the shore. ~Cyril Connolly~
Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much. ~Helen Keller~
Wishing you a lovely summer.
Here are a few inspirational quotes that I gathered here and there.
You can close your eyes to things you don't want to see, but you can't close your heart to the things you don't want to feel ~Author Unknown~
“Don’t ask what the world needs. Ask what makes you come alive, and go do it. Because what the world needs is people who have come alive.” ~Howard Thurman~
The secret of success is to be in harmony with existence, to be always calm to let each wave of life wash us a little farther up the shore. ~Cyril Connolly~
Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much. ~Helen Keller~
Thursday, May 21, 2009
When You Thought I Wasn’t Looking
When you thought I wasn't looking,
I saw you hang my first painting on the refrigerator,
and I immediately wanted to paint another one.
When you thought I wasn't looking,
I saw you feed a stray cat, and I learned that
it was good to be kind to animals.
When you thought I wasn't looking,
I saw you make my favorite cake for me,
and I learned that the little things can be the
special things in life.
When you thought I wasn't looking,
I saw you make a meal and take it to a friend
who was sick, and I learned that we all have to
help take care of each other..
When you thought I wasn't looking,
I saw you give of your time and money to help people
who had nothing, and I learned that those who have
something should give to those who don't.
When you thought I wasn't looking,
I saw you take care of our house and everyone in it,
and I learned we have to take care of what we are given.
When you thought I wasn't looking,
I saw how you handled your responsibilities, even when
you didn't feel good, and I learned that I would have to
be responsible when I grow up.
When you thought I wasn't looking,
I saw tears come from your eyes, and I learned that
sometimes things hurt, but it's all right to cry.
When you thought I wasn't looking,
I saw that you cared, and I wanted to be everything
that I could be.
When you thought I wasn't looking,
I learned most of life's lessons that I need to know to
be a good and productive person when I grow up.
When you thought I wasn't looking,
I looked at you and wanted to say, 'Thanks for all the things
I saw when you thought I wasn't looking.'
LITTLE EYES SEE A LOT.
Live simply. Love generously.
Care deeply. Speak kindly.
I saw you hang my first painting on the refrigerator,
and I immediately wanted to paint another one.
When you thought I wasn't looking,
I saw you feed a stray cat, and I learned that
it was good to be kind to animals.
When you thought I wasn't looking,
I saw you make my favorite cake for me,
and I learned that the little things can be the
special things in life.
When you thought I wasn't looking,
I saw you make a meal and take it to a friend
who was sick, and I learned that we all have to
help take care of each other..
When you thought I wasn't looking,
I saw you give of your time and money to help people
who had nothing, and I learned that those who have
something should give to those who don't.
When you thought I wasn't looking,
I saw you take care of our house and everyone in it,
and I learned we have to take care of what we are given.
When you thought I wasn't looking,
I saw how you handled your responsibilities, even when
you didn't feel good, and I learned that I would have to
be responsible when I grow up.
When you thought I wasn't looking,
I saw tears come from your eyes, and I learned that
sometimes things hurt, but it's all right to cry.
When you thought I wasn't looking,
I saw that you cared, and I wanted to be everything
that I could be.
When you thought I wasn't looking,
I learned most of life's lessons that I need to know to
be a good and productive person when I grow up.
When you thought I wasn't looking,
I looked at you and wanted to say, 'Thanks for all the things
I saw when you thought I wasn't looking.'
LITTLE EYES SEE A LOT.
Live simply. Love generously.
Care deeply. Speak kindly.
Saturday, May 2, 2009
Are you unbreakable
I belong to an Internet club called positive-club. I receive free inspirational stories every week, recently I received this story and wanted to share it with you.
My friend Hans Zimmer had a serious motorcycle accident and lost the use of his left hand.
"Fortunately I'm right handed," he told me as he adroitly served me a cup of tea. "It's amazing what I can do with just one hand."
Despite the loss of his fingers, he learned to fly an airplane in less than a year. But one day, while flying over a mountainous region, his plane had engine problems and crashed. He survived, but was paralyzed from head to foot.
I visited him in the hospital. He smiled at me. "Nothing that happens is really of any importance," he said. "What matters is what I decide to do now!"
I was dumbfounded. I thought my friend was just pretending, and that as soon as I left he would start crying and regretting his situation. That might have been what he did on that day, but he wasn't finished yet. Life still had some fine surprises in store for him.
He met the woman of his life during a conference for handicapped people. He invented a system of digital writing that responded to voice commands. And he sold millions of copies of a book that he wrote about developing the new system.
On the back cover he wrote this short note: "Before becoming paralyzed, I could do a million different things. Now I can only do 990,000. But what sensible person would worry about the 10,000 things he can no longer do, while there are 990,000 things left?" ________________
"What doesn't kill you makes you stronger." Epictetus
I hope you enjoyed it and when facing adversity I also hope you'll remember this story.
My friend Hans Zimmer had a serious motorcycle accident and lost the use of his left hand.
"Fortunately I'm right handed," he told me as he adroitly served me a cup of tea. "It's amazing what I can do with just one hand."
Despite the loss of his fingers, he learned to fly an airplane in less than a year. But one day, while flying over a mountainous region, his plane had engine problems and crashed. He survived, but was paralyzed from head to foot.
I visited him in the hospital. He smiled at me. "Nothing that happens is really of any importance," he said. "What matters is what I decide to do now!"
I was dumbfounded. I thought my friend was just pretending, and that as soon as I left he would start crying and regretting his situation. That might have been what he did on that day, but he wasn't finished yet. Life still had some fine surprises in store for him.
He met the woman of his life during a conference for handicapped people. He invented a system of digital writing that responded to voice commands. And he sold millions of copies of a book that he wrote about developing the new system.
On the back cover he wrote this short note: "Before becoming paralyzed, I could do a million different things. Now I can only do 990,000. But what sensible person would worry about the 10,000 things he can no longer do, while there are 990,000 things left?" ________________
"What doesn't kill you makes you stronger." Epictetus
I hope you enjoyed it and when facing adversity I also hope you'll remember this story.
Tuesday, April 14, 2009
Quotes for today, Tuesday April 14, 2009
Let no man imagine he has no influence. Whoever he may be, and wherever he may be placed, the man who thinks becomes a light and a power.
Henry George
One word frees us of all the weight and pain of life: That word is LOVE.
Sophocles
Henry George
One word frees us of all the weight and pain of life: That word is LOVE.
Sophocles
Saturday, March 14, 2009
The Love of My Life
As I mentioned in my blog introduction, I am not a writer nor a publisher. I love reading beautiful poems and positive inspirations. On my husband's 60th anniversary I wanted to do something special for the occasion, I wanted him to know how much I appreciate and love him.
I wrote a poem dedicated to the love of my life. Through my eyes and my heart I hoped he would discover the man I love and cherish.
I offer you the translation of this poem, it was first written in french, the language we speak and express ourselves.
Today, Réjean, I want you to look at yourself, not in a mirror to fix your hair but through my eyes. I would like for you to see who you are, I want you to see past your little wrinkles in the corner of your eyes that add to your charm.
Réjean, you are an extraordinary man, passionate and devoted. You are not afraid to put in the effort to provide for your family. In your presence the room lights up and you bring happiness to people. You are my sunshine and the man of my life.
Réjean, you are a true friend, funny and respectful. You have a way of making people feel good about themselves, you listen to them and let them know they are important. You are my best friend, I admire and appreciate you so much.
Réjean, you are a wonderful lover and mate. Cuddled up in your arms I am the happiest woman in the world. You have a special place in my heart reserved just for you and you’re the only one that has access to it.
Réjean, you are an incredible father, responsible and generous. Your children know that they can count on you and that you are always there for them. You share your experiences and you teach them the values of life. You are concerned about their happiness and you assure their security. I thank you for giving me this precious gift of love.
A man like you, Réjean, is a real blessing in my life. Constant source of happiness and joy, you're a real gem that I keep as a precious treasure. May this anniversary be very special because someone so wonderful is worthy to receive only the best.
I wish you many more beautiful years filled with joy, love, health and surprises. I wish you to achieve your dreams and live your passions intensely.
I wrote a poem dedicated to the love of my life. Through my eyes and my heart I hoped he would discover the man I love and cherish.
I offer you the translation of this poem, it was first written in french, the language we speak and express ourselves.
Today, Réjean, I want you to look at yourself, not in a mirror to fix your hair but through my eyes. I would like for you to see who you are, I want you to see past your little wrinkles in the corner of your eyes that add to your charm.
Réjean, you are an extraordinary man, passionate and devoted. You are not afraid to put in the effort to provide for your family. In your presence the room lights up and you bring happiness to people. You are my sunshine and the man of my life.
Réjean, you are a true friend, funny and respectful. You have a way of making people feel good about themselves, you listen to them and let them know they are important. You are my best friend, I admire and appreciate you so much.
Réjean, you are a wonderful lover and mate. Cuddled up in your arms I am the happiest woman in the world. You have a special place in my heart reserved just for you and you’re the only one that has access to it.
Réjean, you are an incredible father, responsible and generous. Your children know that they can count on you and that you are always there for them. You share your experiences and you teach them the values of life. You are concerned about their happiness and you assure their security. I thank you for giving me this precious gift of love.
A man like you, Réjean, is a real blessing in my life. Constant source of happiness and joy, you're a real gem that I keep as a precious treasure. May this anniversary be very special because someone so wonderful is worthy to receive only the best.
I wish you many more beautiful years filled with joy, love, health and surprises. I wish you to achieve your dreams and live your passions intensely.
Sunday, March 8, 2009
A Perfect Recipe For The Time We Live In
I would love to share this poem with as many people as possible. With all the crimes, the hatred and the wars all over the world, I strongly believe if we follow this Great Recipe we can make a difference, we can change the world.
I challenge everyone to try this recipe, serve it as often as you wish, for breakfast, for lunch or dinner. Share it with friends,
family, co-workers, neighbours and while you're at it... share it with a stranger.
A Perfect Recipe
I challenge everyone to try this recipe, serve it as often as you wish, for breakfast, for lunch or dinner. Share it with friends,
family, co-workers, neighbours and while you're at it... share it with a stranger.
A Perfect Recipe
Fold two hands together,
And express a dash of sorrow.
Marinate it overnight,
And work on it tomorrow.
Chop one grudge in tiny pieces,
Add several cups of love.
Dredge with a large sized smile,
Mix with the ingredients above.
Dissolve the hate within you,
By doing a good deed.
Cut in and help your friend,
If he/she should be in need.
Stir in laughter, love and kindness,
From the heart it has to come.
Toss with genuine forgiveness,
And give your friends some.
The amount of people served,
Will depend on you.
It can serve the whole wide world.
If you really want it to!!!
Author unknown
The Yellow Shirt
The yellow shirt had long sleeves, four extra-large pockets trimmed in black thread and snaps up the front. It was faded from years of wear, but still in decent shape. I found it in 1963 when I was home from college on Christmas break, rummaging through bags of clothes Mom intended to give away. 'You're not taking that old thing, are you?' Mom said when she saw me packing the yellow shirt. 'I wore that when I was pregnant with your brother in 1954!'
'It's just the thing to wear over my clothes during art class, Mom. Thanks!' I slipped it into my suitcase before she could object. The yellow shirt be came a part of my college wardrobe. I loved it. After graduation, I wore the shirt the day I moved into my new apartment and on Saturday mornings when I cleaned.
The next year, I married. When I became pregnant, I wore the yellow shirt during big-belly days. I missed Mom and the rest of my family, since we were in Colorado and they were in Illinois, but that shirt helped. I smiled, remembering that Mother had worn it when she was pregnant, 15 years earlier.
That Christmas, mindful of the warm feelings the shirt had given me, I patched one elbow, wrapped it in holiday paper and sent it to Mom. When Mom wrote to thank me for her 'real' gifts, she said the yellow shirt was lovely. She never mentioned it again.
The next year, my husband, daughter and I stopped at Mom and Dad's to pick up some furniture.
Days later, when we uncrated the kitchen table, I noticed something yellow taped to its bottom. The shirt!
And so the pattern was set.
On our next visit home, I secretly placed the shirt under Mom and Dad's mattress. I don't know how long it took for her to find it, but almost two years passed before I discovered it under the base of our living-room floor lamp. The yellow shirt was just what I needed nowwhile refinishing furniture. The walnut stains added character.
In 1975 my husband and I divorced. With my three children, I prepared to move back to Illinois. As I packed, a deep depression overtook me. I wondered if I could make it on my own. I wondered if I would find a job. I paged through the Bible, looking for comfort. In Ephesians, I read, 'So use every piece of God's armour to resist the enemy whenever he attacks, and when it is all over, you will be standing up.'
I tried to picture myself wearing God's armour, but all I saw was the stained yellow shirt. Slowly, it dawned on me. Wasn't my mother's love a piece of God's armour? My courage was renewed.
Unpacking in our new home, I knew I had to get the shirt back to Mother. The next time I visited her, I tucked it in her bottom dresser drawer.
Meanwhile, I found a good job at a radio station. A year later I discovered the yellow shirt hidden in a rag bag in my cleaning closet.
Something new had been added. Embroidered in bright green across the breast pocket were the words 'I BELONG TO PAT.'
Not to be outdone, I got out my own embroidery materials and added an apostrophe and seven more letters. Now the shirt proudly proclaimed, 'I BELONG TO PAT'S MOTHER.' But I didn't stop there. I zig-zagged all the frayed seams, then had a friend mail the shirt in a fancy box to Mom from Arlington, VA.
We enclosed an official looking letter from 'The Institute for the Destitute,' announcing that she was the recipient of an award for good deeds. I would have given anything to see Mom's face when she opened the box. But, of course, she never mentioned it.
Two years later, in 1978, I remarried. The day of our wedding, Harold and I put our car in a friend's garage to avoid practical jokers. After the wedding, while my husband drove us to our honeymoon suite, I reached for a pillow in the car to rest my head. It felt lumpy. I unzipped the case and found, wrapped in wedding paper, the yellow shirt. Inside a pocket was a note: 'Read John 14:27-29. I love you both, Mother.'
That night I paged through the Bible in a hotel room and found the verses: 'I am leaving you with a gift: peace of mind and heart. And the peace I give isn't fragile like the peace the world gives. So don't be troubled or afraid. Remember what I told you: I am going away, but I will come back to you again. If you really love me, you will be very happy for me, for now I can go to the Father, who is greater than I am. I have told you these things before they happen so that when they do, you will believe in me.'
The shirt was Mother's final gift. She had known for three months that she had terminal Lou Gehrig's disease. Mother died the following year at age 57.
I was tempted to send the yellow shirt with her to her grave. But I'm glad I didn't, because it is a vivid reminder of the love-filled game she and I played for 16 years. Besides, my older daughter is in college now, majoring in art. And every art student needs a baggy yellow shirt with big pockets.
Unknowne author
I hope you enjoy reading this story as much as I did. It saddens me because I don't have a close relationship with my mom... but we're working on it.
'It's just the thing to wear over my clothes during art class, Mom. Thanks!' I slipped it into my suitcase before she could object. The yellow shirt be came a part of my college wardrobe. I loved it. After graduation, I wore the shirt the day I moved into my new apartment and on Saturday mornings when I cleaned.
The next year, I married. When I became pregnant, I wore the yellow shirt during big-belly days. I missed Mom and the rest of my family, since we were in Colorado and they were in Illinois, but that shirt helped. I smiled, remembering that Mother had worn it when she was pregnant, 15 years earlier.
That Christmas, mindful of the warm feelings the shirt had given me, I patched one elbow, wrapped it in holiday paper and sent it to Mom. When Mom wrote to thank me for her 'real' gifts, she said the yellow shirt was lovely. She never mentioned it again.
The next year, my husband, daughter and I stopped at Mom and Dad's to pick up some furniture.
Days later, when we uncrated the kitchen table, I noticed something yellow taped to its bottom. The shirt!
And so the pattern was set.
On our next visit home, I secretly placed the shirt under Mom and Dad's mattress. I don't know how long it took for her to find it, but almost two years passed before I discovered it under the base of our living-room floor lamp. The yellow shirt was just what I needed nowwhile refinishing furniture. The walnut stains added character.
In 1975 my husband and I divorced. With my three children, I prepared to move back to Illinois. As I packed, a deep depression overtook me. I wondered if I could make it on my own. I wondered if I would find a job. I paged through the Bible, looking for comfort. In Ephesians, I read, 'So use every piece of God's armour to resist the enemy whenever he attacks, and when it is all over, you will be standing up.'
I tried to picture myself wearing God's armour, but all I saw was the stained yellow shirt. Slowly, it dawned on me. Wasn't my mother's love a piece of God's armour? My courage was renewed.
Unpacking in our new home, I knew I had to get the shirt back to Mother. The next time I visited her, I tucked it in her bottom dresser drawer.
Meanwhile, I found a good job at a radio station. A year later I discovered the yellow shirt hidden in a rag bag in my cleaning closet.
Something new had been added. Embroidered in bright green across the breast pocket were the words 'I BELONG TO PAT.'
Not to be outdone, I got out my own embroidery materials and added an apostrophe and seven more letters. Now the shirt proudly proclaimed, 'I BELONG TO PAT'S MOTHER.' But I didn't stop there. I zig-zagged all the frayed seams, then had a friend mail the shirt in a fancy box to Mom from Arlington, VA.
We enclosed an official looking letter from 'The Institute for the Destitute,' announcing that she was the recipient of an award for good deeds. I would have given anything to see Mom's face when she opened the box. But, of course, she never mentioned it.
Two years later, in 1978, I remarried. The day of our wedding, Harold and I put our car in a friend's garage to avoid practical jokers. After the wedding, while my husband drove us to our honeymoon suite, I reached for a pillow in the car to rest my head. It felt lumpy. I unzipped the case and found, wrapped in wedding paper, the yellow shirt. Inside a pocket was a note: 'Read John 14:27-29. I love you both, Mother.'
That night I paged through the Bible in a hotel room and found the verses: 'I am leaving you with a gift: peace of mind and heart. And the peace I give isn't fragile like the peace the world gives. So don't be troubled or afraid. Remember what I told you: I am going away, but I will come back to you again. If you really love me, you will be very happy for me, for now I can go to the Father, who is greater than I am. I have told you these things before they happen so that when they do, you will believe in me.'
The shirt was Mother's final gift. She had known for three months that she had terminal Lou Gehrig's disease. Mother died the following year at age 57.
I was tempted to send the yellow shirt with her to her grave. But I'm glad I didn't, because it is a vivid reminder of the love-filled game she and I played for 16 years. Besides, my older daughter is in college now, majoring in art. And every art student needs a baggy yellow shirt with big pockets.
Unknowne author
I hope you enjoy reading this story as much as I did. It saddens me because I don't have a close relationship with my mom... but we're working on it.
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